Friends and Donors

• Friends and Donors

We’ve recently endured a political campaign season that we were probably all glad to see end—regardless of our political persuasion.  Our nation is facing domestic and international challenges that are the most daunting, probably since the Civil War. However, as I often remind my students, there are really no long-term political solutions.  The reason is this: our most noble efforts cannot overcome the effect of sin.  

And that is why the Christmas celebration of the incarnation of our Lord Jesus Christ portends joy and hope for those who would trust Him. The good news of His death and resurrection is that the power of sin and death was overwhelmingly destroyed.  Isaiah graphically declares, “He was wounded for our transgressions; he was crushed for our iniquities.” And our sure hope is that one day Christ will return to establish His kingdom in the new heaven and earth.  Even as I write these words, I am elated by the prospect of spending eternity with Him where, “by its light [the glory of God], the nations will walk.”

Criswell College is committed to W.A. Criswell’s founding vision for the school: “This above all else, the saving of the lost!” The College exists to provide biblical and applied education to prepare men and women to serve in Christian ministries. Our students, like the ones listed below, actively share the hope found in the Gospel with people both in our own nation and nations throughout the world.

• Jonathan, who spent the summer preaching in small Texas churches  

• Ranjani, who ministered six months in a Muslim country in Central Asia

• Courtney and Nate, who counsel with Hope for the Heart, the Christian counseling ministry that helps people and families throughout the world

Our students and graduates make a difference! They fill pulpits, lead ministries, teach Bible classes, and engage in missionary work. Because of the academic and spiritual education provided by Criswell College, the work of the church is advanced both here and abroad.

The reality many Christian colleges face is that the cost to provide an education far exceeds the tuition that can be charged.  Charging the full cost would drive our tuition rates above what all but the very wealthy families could afford. Consequently, we must annually raise an additional $2,000,000 from donors like you so that we might faithfully fulfill the ministry the Lord has set before us.  To bridge the gap, one of the wonderful friends of Criswell College recently made a $300,000 Challenge Gift to encourage others to join us in meeting our 2012 year-end needs.

We know the goal is great, but we also know what is at stake.  The only hope for our nation is found in the person of Jesus Christ. Would you prayerfully consider a generous gift to help match the $300,000 Challenge Gift so that we can train men and women for the sake of our Lord’s Kingdom?

Thank you very much for being such a blessing and an encouragement to Criswell College.

In Christ,

Michael W. Rodgers
Vice President of Development

I Corinthians 15:58